Universal delivery and collection box unit (UDCBU)

ABSTRACT

The invention relates to a universal delivery and collection box unit (UDCBU). In one implementation, a UDCBU includes a mail compartment ( 110/120 ) accessible by one door ( 210 ) and a storage compartment ( 130 ) accessible by a second door ( 220 ). The mail compartment allows the postal service to deliver and pickup mail. The storage compartment allows both the postal service and authorized delivery services to deliver larger parcels. In this implementation, information would be recorded regarding access to this storage compartment and transmitted electronically to a consumer.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.60/269,394, filed Feb. 20, 2001, titled UNIVERSAL DELIVERY ANDCOLLECTION BOX UNIT (UDCBU) a/k/a THE MILLENNIUM MAILBOX, the disclosureof which is expressly incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Currently, an increasing amount of commerce involves the home deliveryof merchandise. In particular, the advent of catalogs and the Internetas low cost marketing and distribution channels for goods and serviceshave greatly increased the amount of commerce involving the homedelivery of goods. Companies involved in delivering goods to consumers,however, have experienced difficulty in meeting consumers' price,service, security, privacy, selection, and information expectations. Onecause of this difficulty is the limitations imposed on delivery serviceby current delivery and collection units or mailboxes.

Presently, the typical collection unit is a small box located on thecurb in front of a consumer's house. This box provides adequate storagefor small pieces of mail, but cannot accommodate larger packages.Further, other delivery services besides the United States PostalService (USPS), cannot utilize these mailboxes. This often necessitatesthe use of a more expensive form of delivery, which in turn increasesthe delivery costs to the consumer.

In addition, the limitations imposed by typical collection units ofteninterfere with consumers' desire for consistent delivery service.Because many packages cannot fit in typical mail collection units, thesepackages usually require personal delivery. If a consumer is not home toreceive a package, however, the package is often handled inconsistently.In some cases, the consumer may receive a notice of attempted delivery.In other cases, the merchandise may be placed beside the front door. Instill other cases, the merchandise is left with a neighbor. Thisinconsistent approach often leads to consumer dissatisfaction.

These same problems also exist with respect to consumers' desire forsecurity and privacy. When packages are left at their front door or withneighbors, consumers are often concerned about theft and damage to theirgoods. Consumers also tend to dislike the loss of privacy associatedwith having their packages left with their neighbors. Moreover,consumers are often concerned about the signal that packages left infront of their homes send to home burglars. Additionally, typicalcollection units provide no way of preventing access to even thosepieces of mail that fit in the collection unit.

In addition, consumers often want the ability to choose when and wheretheir direct purchases will be received. However, as stated above, thesedeliveries often require that the consumer be home. This is not oftenpractical for many consumers. This prevents the delivery of many items,such as perishables.

Finally, consumers, merchants, and delivery service providers expectthat delivery information will be captured and made available betweenall parties from the point at which an order is made to the time it isdelivered. The currently available collection units, however, are notcurrently used to transmit delivery information. With the exception ofthe outgoing mail flag found on some collection units, most collectionunits are not able to receive or transmit any information regarding whatitems are in the collection unit, when an item was placed in thecollection unit, or who placed the items in the collection unit.

Therefore, it is desirable to provide a collection unit that solves someor all of the problems associated with currently available systems.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

Structures in accordance with an embodiment of the invention provide asecure container for housing mail and other deliverables. The containercomprises a watertight housing, an incoming mail compartment disposedinside the housing, an outgoing mail compartment disposed inside thehousing, a storage compartment disposed inside the housing, a main doorattached to the housing, a storage door attached to the housing, and asensing device. The main door provides access to the incoming mailcompartment and the outgoing mail compartment. The storage door providesaccess to the storage compartment. The sensing device is configured todetermine delivery information upon placement of a deliverable in thestorage compartment.

Structures in accordance with another embodiment of the inventionprovide a secure container for housing mail and other deliverablescomprising a watertight housing, an incoming mail compartment locatedinside the housing, an outgoing mail compartment located inside thehousing, an auxiliary mail compartment located inside the housing, astorage compartment located inside the housing, a main door attached tothe housing, and a storage door attached to the housing. The auxiliarycompartment is configured to accept mail having a configuration suchthat it cannot be delivered to the incoming mail compartment. The maindoor provides access to the incoming mail compartment, the outgoing mailcompartment, and the auxiliary mail compartment. The main door alsocomprises a locking mechanism, which allows only the United StatesPostal Service and an authorized consumer to open the main door. Thestorage door provides access to the storage compartment. The storagedoor also comprises a locking mechanism, which allows only the UnitedStates Postal Service, an authorized consumer, and an authorized sourceof deliveries to open the storage door.

Systems in accordance with another embodiment of the invention provide asystem for receiving deliverables and communicating delivery informationto an intended recipient. The system comprises a receptacle configuredto receive deliverables. The receptacle includes a first compartment forreceiving postal deliverables and a second compartment for receivingdeliverables from authorized non-postal sources. The system alsocomprises means for sensing when non-postal deliverables are received inthe second compartment and for identifying associated deliveryinformation; and means for electronically storing the deliveryinformation and transmitting the delivery information to a designatedlocation.

Methods in accordance with another embodiment of the invention provide amethod for monitoring delivery of items to a plurality of receptacles atdifferent locations. The method comprises providing a secure receptacleto a plurality of consumers. The secure receptacle includes at least twosecured storage compartments configured to accept delivered items. Atleast one secured storage compartment is configured to receive postaldeliverables and at least one storage compartment is configured toreceive deliverables from authorized non-postal sources. The method alsocomprises authorizing at least one non-postal source of deliverableitems to have access to the non-postal storage compartments of eachreceptacle, monitoring usage of the secured non-postal storagecompartment to identify when a delivered item has been received andidentifying the authorized source of the delivered item, and assessing afee against the authorized source.

Systems in accordance with another embodiment of the invention provide asystem for receiving deliverables comprising a receptacle configured toreceive deliverables. The receptacle includes a first compartment forreceiving postal deliverables and a second compartment for receivingdeliverables from authorized non-postal sources. The system alsoincludes means for sensing when non-postal deliverables are received inthe second compartment and for identifying associated deliveryinformation and means for electronically storing the deliveryinformation.

Additional aspects of the invention are disclosed and defined by theappended claims. It is to be understood that both the foregoing generaldescription and the following detailed description are exemplary andexplanatory only and are not restrictive of the invention as claimed.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute apart of this specification, illustrate several embodiments of theinvention and together with the description, serve to explain theprinciples of the invention.

In the drawings:

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the components of a universaldelivery and collection box unit consistent with an embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the door components of auniversal delivery and collection box unit consistent with an embodimentof the invention;

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the transfer of mail deliveryinformation from a universal delivery and collection box unit consistentwith an embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 4A is a frontal perspective view of a universal delivery andcollection box unit consistent with an exemplary embodiment of theinvention;

FIG. 4B illustrates a computer station for docking a reader with acomputer station and communicating with a central data source consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention;

FIG. 5A is a front view of one embodiment of a main door consistent withan exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 5B is a side view of one embodiment of a main door consistent withan exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5C is a front view of a second embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 5D is a side view of a second embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5C;

FIG. 5E is a front view of a third embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 5F is a side view of a third embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5E;

FIG. 5G is a front view of a fourth embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 5H is a side view of a fourth embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5G;

FIG. 5I is a front view of a fifth embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 5J is a top view of a fifth embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5I;

FIG. 5K is a front view of a sixth embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 5L is a side view of a sixth embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5K;

FIG. 5M is a front view of a seventh embodiment of a main doorconsistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown inFIG. 4;

FIG. 5N is a side view of a seventh embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5M;

FIG. 6A is a side view of one embodiment of an outgoing mail flagconsistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown inFIG. 4;

FIG. 6B is a side view of a second embodiment of an outgoing mail flagconsistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown inFIG. 4;

FIG. 6C is a side view of a third embodiment of an outgoing mail flagconsistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown inFIG. 4;

FIG. 7A is a frontal perspective view illustrating a universal deliveryand collection box unit with an open main door consistent with anexemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4;

FIG. 7B is a frontal perspective view illustrating a universal deliveryand collection box unit with an open main door and open incoming maildoor consistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shownin FIG. 7A;

FIG. 7C is a frontal perspective view illustrating a universal deliveryand collection box unit with an open main door and open outgoing mailcompartment consistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, asshown in FIG. 7A; and

FIG. 8 is a frontal perspective view illustrating a universal deliveryand collection box unit with an open storage door consistent with anexemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4.

DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

Structures in accordance with the present invention will now bedescribed with respect to an exemplary embodiment of a universaldelivery and collection box unit (“UDCBU”) or Omnibox. FIGS. 1-3describe the components of a UDCBU consistent with the invention. FIGS.4-8 describe one embodiment of a UDCBU comprising these components. Thisembodiment is merely exemplary, and other embodiments may also be used.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating the components of a universaldelivery and collection box unit consistent with an embodiment of theinvention. As shown in FIG. 1, in one implementation, the UniversalDelivery and Collection Box Unit (UDCBU) 100 includes four components:an incoming mail compartment 110, an outgoing mail compartment 120, astorage compartment 130, and other compartments 140. This implementationis merely exemplary, and other implementations may also be used. Ofcourse, fewer or more compartments may be utilized.

Incoming mail compartment 110 holds mail delivered by the USPS to anauthorized consumer. Outgoing mail compartment 120 holds mail placed inUDCBU 100 by the authorized consumer to be picked up for delivery byUSPS. Storage compartment 130 holds parcels that either cannot fit inthe incoming mail compartment or are delivered by authorized entitiesother than USPS. For example, groceries, dry cleaning, videos, officesupplies, hot/cold meals, and pharmaceutical items may be placed instorage compartment 130. Storage compartment may also be used to returngoods. Other compartments 140 include additional compartments that maybe contained in UDCBU 100. In one implementation, other compartments 140includes a compartment to hold mail that has a configuration such thatit cannot be delivered to the incoming mail compartment, such anewspapers. These compartments allow UDCBU 100 to hold both regularUnited States mail, similar to existing collection units, and parcelsdelivered by other services. This implementation is merely exemplary,and other implementations may also be used.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the door components of auniversal delivery and collection box unit consistent with an embodimentof the invention. As shown in FIG. 2, in one implementation, UDCBU 100includes two doors: a main door 210 and a storage door 220. In thisimplementation, main door 210 provides access to incoming mailcompartment 110 and outgoing mail compartment 120, and storage door 220provides access to storage compartment 130. The use of separate doorsfor incoming and outgoing mail compartments 110 and 120 and for storagecompartment 130 allows for different levels of accessibility for thosecompartments.

For example, as shown in FIG. 2, in one implementation, main door 210would be accessible only by USPS 230 and an authorized consumer 240.Authorized consumer 240 would be an individual or group of individuals(e.g., a family living together) authorized to receive mail at UDCBU100. This would allow USPS 230 to deliver and pick up mail from theUDCBU, and authorized consumer 240 to retrieve incoming mail and leaveoutgoing mail for pickup in UDCBU 100. However, it restricts access byother individuals, thereby providing greater security for mail delivery.In this implementation, a locking mechanism may be used to restrictaccess to USPS 230 and authorized consumer 240. This locking mechanismmay be mechanical, such as a key lock, electrical, such as a keypad, orany other locking mechanism. This implementation is merely exemplary,and other implementations may also be used.

As further shown in FIG. 2, in one implementation, storage door 220would be accessible by USPS 250, an authorized consumer 260, andauthorized delivery agents 270. Authorized consumer 260 would be anindividual authorized to receive mail at UDCBU 100. This would allowUSPS 250 to place parcels that will not fit in incoming mail compartment110 or other compartment 140, into storage compartment 130. This willalso allow authorized delivery agents 270 to leave a package forauthorized consumer 260 in a secure location if authorized consumer 260is not available to accept the package. In one implementation, upon arequest by authorized consumer 260, USPS 250 would provide authorizeddelivery agents 270 with a key or other access information to openstorage door 220. In addition, authorized consumer 260 would be able toopen storage door 220 to retrieve packages. In this implementation, alocking mechanism may be used to restrict access to storage compartment130 to USPS 250, authorized consumer 260, and authorized delivery agents270. This locking mechanism may be mechanical, such as a key lock,electrical, such as a keypad, or any other locking mechanism. Theseimplementations are merely exemplary, and other implementations may alsobe used.

FIG. 3 is a flow diagram illustrating the transfer of mail deliveryinformation from a universal delivery and collection box unit consistentwith an embodiment of the invention. As shown in FIG. 3, upon deliveryof a package, UDCBU 310 may record information regarding the delivery ofparcels to a compartment (such as storage compartment 130 described inFIG. 1) in UDCBU 310. Delivery information may include when the storagecompartment is accessed, who accessed the storage compartment, as wellas any other delivery information. As described in FIG. 2, a door ofUDCBU 310 (such as storage door 220 in FIG. 2) may be lockedelectronically. In this implementation, the use of a keypad requiring anaccess code to open the door would allow UDCBU 310 to record deliveryinformation. Each delivery service that accesses the box would beassigned a unique access code. UDCBU 310 would then be able to recordwho accessed UDCBU 310 and when the access occurred. This informationmay be stored locally or remotely.

As shown in FIG. 3, this information may then be transmitted to a numberof different locations, such as a computer 320. This information mayalso be transmitted to a pager, a cell phone, a database, or any otherdevice. A database may be used to store information regarding all accessto UDCBU 310 over a give time period. This information may be used forboth security purposes and to calculate the number of times UDCBU 310 isaccessed by delivery agents for accounting purposes. In oneimplementation, this information would be transmitted using wirelesstechnology.

In another implementation, a reader, such as an infrared scanner, wouldretrieve all the access information from UDCBU 310. The mail carrierwould then dock the reader with a computer station, which would thentransmit the delivery information to the central data source. From thisdata source, the information could be transmitted to a variety ofsources, as discussed in FIG. 3.

The storage of this information would allow USPS to charge authorizeddelivery agents an access fee for using UDCBU 400. In thisimplementation, an authorized delivery agent would register with theUSPS for access to UDCBUs. Every time a customer of that authorizeddelivery agent requests delivery of a parcel, the delivery agent wouldrequest an access code for the designated UDCBU. The delivery agentwould enter the access code and leave the parcel in the UDCBU. A sensingmeans would record when the delivery agent accessed the UDCBU and whoaccessed the UDCBU. This process would be repeated at every UDCBU thatthe authorized delivery agent accessed. The USPS would then compile arecord of all the times that delivery agent accessed a UDCBU. The USPScould then charge a per usage fee based on the access. Alternatively,the fee could be charged for unlimited access over a period of time,such as a monthly access fee. These implementations are merelyexemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

FIGS. 1-3 illustrate the components of a UDCBU. FIGS. 4-8 illustrate oneimplementation of a universal delivery and collection box unitcomprising these components. This implementation is merely exemplary,and other implementations may also be used.

FIG. 4 is a frontal perspective view of a universal delivery andcollection box unit consistent with an exemplary embodiment of theinvention. As shown in FIG. 4, a UDCBU 400 comprises a housing 405, amain door 410, and a storage door 460. Housing 405, main door 410, andstorage door 460 may be constructed of any material consistent with theinvention. As shown in FIG. 4, in this implementation, main door 410 isattached to a front face of housing 405, and storage door 460 isattached to a side face of housing 405. In one implementation, housing405, main door 410, and storage door 460 may be tamper resistant,watertight, and weatherproof. These implementations are merelyexemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

In one implementation, all exterior surfaces of UDCBU 400, including therear and bottom, will have a smooth finish and be impact resistant. Inthis implementation, sufficient impact resistance will require that thecoating applied to any exposed surface of the unit will not be cracked,chipped, broken, or dented more than 1/16 inch in depth, by dropping a2-pound hard steel ball with a ½-inch spherical radius from a height of6 inches on any surface of the unit. In this implementation, the impactstrength of housing 405 will exceed 500 inch-pounds from −40 to 145±5°F. In addition, housing 405 shall endure impact from a baseball bat orblunt instrument delivered by an individual of normal size and statureon any surface of the unit without allowing access to any compartment orreceptacle by springing or breaking any door open as a result of theimpact. These implementations are merely exemplary, and otherimplementations may be used.

In this implementation, main door 410 and storage door 460 will besturdy and able to withstand loads at any point on the exposed surfaceand in any direction without permanent deformation or failure, whichwould allow unauthorized entry into the compartment. In thisimplementation, main door 410 shall withstand inward and outward pullsof 250±5 pounds anywhere on the outside surface of the door when in thelocked or closed position, and storage door 460 shall withstand inwardor outward pull of 500±5 pounds anywhere on the exposed surface of thedoor when in a locked position.

In one implementation, as shown in FIG. 4, main door 410 comprises ahandle 420 and a locking mechanism 430. Handle 420 allows an individualto open main door 410. In one implementation, handle 420 is located at aheight sufficient for a delivery person to comfortably reach the handlefrom within a delivery vehicle. In this implementation, main door 410will operate by pulling outward and downward on handle 420. Otherimplementations of handle 420 are described in FIGS. 5A-5N.

In addition, in this implementation, main door 410 will be designed toprovide protection against wind, rain, sleet, or snow. In anotherimplementation, door latches (not shown) will hold the door closed butallow easy opening and closing requiring no more than 5 pounds of force.In another implementation, magnetic latches will be used. In yet anotherimplementation, carriers are alerted that main door 410 is properly shutby either tactile or by sound (i.e., “snap” or “click”). In anotherimplementation, the door, once opened, will remain in the open positionuntil the carrier pushes it closed. In this implementation, the doorwill rotate a minimum of 100 degrees and a maximum of 120 degrees. Theseimplementations are merely exemplary, and other implementations may beused.

Locking mechanism 430 prevents unauthorized individuals from openingmain door 410. Locking mechanism 430 may be an electrical or mechanicallock. In one implementation, locking mechanism 430 would be a standardkey operated lock. In another implementation, locking mechanism 430would comprise a keypad requiring an access code to open main door 410.In still another implementation, locking mechanism 430 could be operatedby a smart card that would be inserted or swiped to allow an individualto open main door 410. As described in FIG. 2, in this implementation,lock 430 would allow only the USPS and an authorized consumer to openmain door 410. These implementations are merely exemplary, and otherimplementations may also be used.

As shown in FIG. 4, storage door 460 comprises a handle 490, a lockingmechanism 480, and a deliverables indicator 470. Storage door 460 willbe designed to hinder tampering and forced entries. In oneimplementation, storage door 460 will have a seal to ensure thecompartment is air tight and waterproof. These implementations aremerely exemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

Handle 490 allows an individual to open storage door 460. In oneimplementation, when unlocked, a force, no greater than 5 lbs. on handle490 will open storage door 460. In this implementation, storage door 460will operate freely but be sturdy enough to resist bending that mayresult from a forced entry attempt.

Locking mechanism 480 prevents unauthorized individuals from openingstorage door 460. Locking mechanism 480 may be an electrical ormechanical lock. In one implementation, locking mechanism 480 would be astandard key operated lock. In another implementation, locking mechanism480 could be operated by a smart card that would be inserted or swipedto allow an individual to open storage door 460.

In another implementation, as shown in FIG. 4, locking mechanism 480 isoperated by an access entry control mechanism, such as a keypad. Thekeypad would allow authorized individuals to enter an access code toopen storage door 460. A battery may be used to power the lockingmechanism 480. In this implementation, an authorized consumer isassigned a fixed access code that will always allow the user to openstorage door 460. A second access code would also be assigned forauthorized delivery personnel. In one implementation, this second accesscode would change daily in a random or pseudo-random fashion and wouldbe made available to delivery personnel at the time of delivery. It iscontemplated that different authorized delivery personnel would havedifferent access codes.

In this implementation, a sensing device would record the time at whichan individual entered an access code and the access code entered. Thisinformation would be stored in the unit. A communications device 492would then communicate this information to a designated location. In oneimplementation, UDCBU 400 would comprise a wireless transmitter totransmit the data to a central data location. In another implementation,device 492 would be scanned with an infrared reader 493 by a mailcarrier. Reader 493 would retrieve all the access information from UDCBU400.

FIG. 4B illustrates a computer station for docking a reader with acomputer station and communicating with a central data source consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention. In one implementation,after reader 493 retrieves the access information from UDCBU 400 asdescribed above, the mail carrier would then dock reader 493 with acomputer station 495 using a docking station 494. Computer station 495would then transmit the delivery information to a central data source497. Central data source 497 would be used to store the accessinformation from UDCBU 400. From this data source, the information couldbe transmitted to a variety of sources, as discussed in FIG. 3. In oneimplementation, a computer station 498 would have access to the datastored in central data source 497. As described above with reference toFIG. 3, in one implementation, computer station 498 would sort thedelivery information for UDCBU 400 based on the identity of the sourceof any non-postal deliverables delivered to storage compartment 810 (notshown in FIG. 4, but shown in FIG. 8). Computer station 498 would thenbe used to calculate an access fee based on the number of times thesource of the non-postal deliverables in storage compartment 810. Itshould be noted that the information may be transmitted between thedocking station 494, computer station 495, central data source 497 andcomputer station 498 by wires or wirelessly. These implementations aremerely exemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

Deliverables indicator 470 indicates the presence of a deliverable instorage compartment 810 (not shown in FIG. 4, but shown in FIG. 8). Inone implementation, deliverables indicator 470 may include a slot instorage door 460 with a bi-directional sliding mechanism (not shown)located behind storage door 460. In this implementation, deliverablesindicator 470 would comprise two panels: one indicating the presence ofdeliverables and one indicating the absence of deliverables. Thebi-directional sliding mechanism would move deliverables indicator 470back and forth in front of the slot to place the appropriate panel ofdeliverables indicator 470 in front of the slot. This would allow anindividual in front of storage door 460 to see one of the panels ofdeliverables indicator 470 and determine if a parcel is present instorage compartment 810. In another implementation, deliverablesindicator 470 may operate automatically. For example, the opening ofstorage door 460 could act to operate deliverables indicator 470. Theseimplementations are merely exemplary, and other implementations may alsobe used.

As shown in FIG. 4, UDCBU also comprises an outgoing mail flag 450 and abar code 440. Outgoing mail flag 450 indicates the presence of mail inan outgoing mail compartment 710 (not shown in FIG. 4, but shown inFIGS. 7A-7C). In this implementation, outgoing mail flag 450 is locatedon a side face of housing 405. In another implementation, outgoing mailflag 450 would have two orientations. The first orientation wouldindicate the presence of mail in outgoing mail compartment 710; thesecond orientation would indicate the absence of mail in outgoing mailcompartment 710. In this implementation, an authorized consumer couldmanually move outgoing mail flag 450 to the first orientation uponplacing mail in outgoing mail compartment 710, and a mail carrier couldmanually move the outgoing mail flag 450 to the second position uponremoving the mail from outgoing mail compartment 710. In anotherimplementation, outgoing mail flag 450 would automatically move to thesecond position upon opening main door 410. Other implementations ofoutgoing mail flag 450 are described in FIGS. 6A-6C. Theseimplementations are merely exemplary, and other implementations may alsobe used.

Bar code 440 allows USPS to confirm delivery of mail and packages toUDCBU 400. In one implementation, each UDCBU 400 would be assigned aspecific identification number, which would be represented by bar code440. Currently, delivery confirmation barcodes are placed on most mailpieces for which delivery confirmation is requested. These barcodelabels can be printed by the shipper, a vendor, or by the PostalService. Using a Mobile Data Collection Device (MDCD) scanning device,the carrier may scan the delivery confirmation barcode on the mail pieceand barcode 440 to confirm delivery of the mail piece. After completinghis route, the carrier will place the MDCD in a cradle located at adelivery unit. The cradle transmits the information from the MDCD to acentral data location. USPS and its customers can then retrieve thisinformation via the Internet or other methods. This implementation ismerely exemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

In another implementation, UDCBU 400 also includes a power source. Thepower source would be used to provide power to any electronic lockingmechanisms or other devices located in UDCBU that require power. In oneimplementation, this power source is a battery. In anotherimplementation, UDCBU 400 is wired directly to an electricity source,such as from a house. These implementations are merely exemplary, andother implementations may also be used.

FIG. 5A is a front view of one embodiment of a main door consistent withan exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4. FIG. 5B isa side view of one embodiment of a main door consistent with anexemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5A. As shown inFIGS. 5A-5B, main door 505 includes a handle 510. In thisimplementation, handle 510 comprises a J-shaped structure. To open door505, an individual would grasp a rear face 511 of handle 510 and pulldownward and outward. This implementation is merely exemplary, and otherimplementations may also be used.

FIG. 5C is a front view of a second embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4. FIG.5D is a side view of a second embodiment of a main door consistent withan exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5C. As shownin FIGS. 5C-5D, main door 515 includes a handle 520. In thisimplementation, handle 520 comprises a knob. To open door 515, anindividual would grasp knob 520 and pull downward and outward. Thisimplementation is merely exemplary, and other implementations may alsobe used.

FIG. 5E is a front view of a third embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4. FIG.5F is a side view of a third embodiment of a main door consistent withan exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5E. As shownin FIGS. 5E-5F, main door 525 includes a handle 530. In thisimplementation, handle 530 comprises a tab located at the top of door530. To open door 530, an individual would grasp a rear face 531 ofhandle 530 and pull downward and outward. This implementation is merelyexemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

FIG. 5G is a front view of a fourth embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4. FIG.5H is a side view of a fourth embodiment of a main door consistent withan exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5G. As shownin FIGS. 5G-5H, main door 535 includes a handle 540. In thisimplementation, handle 540 comprises an L-shaped structure, which isattached to door 535 by nut 541. To open door 535, an individual wouldgrasp a rear face 542 of handle 540 and pull downward and outward. Thisimplementation is merely exemplary, and other implementations may alsobe used.

FIG. 5I is a front view of a fifth embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4. FIG.5J is a top view of a fifth embodiment of a main door consistent with anexemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5I. As shown inFIGS. 5I-5J, main door 545 includes a handle 550. In thisimplementation, handle 550 comprises a U-shaped structure. To open door545, an individual would grasp handle 550 and pull downward and outward.This implementation is merely exemplary, and other implementations mayalso be used.

FIG. 5K is a front view of a sixth embodiment of a main door consistentwith an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4. FIG.5L is a side view of a sixth embodiment of a main door consistent withan exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 5K. As shownin FIGS. 5K-5L, main door 555 includes a handle 560. In thisimplementation, handle 560 comprises a bar 561 and a ring 562. To opendoor 555, an individual would grasp ring 562 and pull downward andoutward. This implementation is merely exemplary, and otherimplementations may also be used.

FIG. 5M is a front view of a seventh embodiment of a main doorconsistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown inFIG. 4. FIG. 5N is a side view of a seventh embodiment of a main doorconsistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown inFIG. 5M. As shown in FIGS. 5M-5N, main door 565 includes a handle 570.In this implementation, handle 570 comprises a curved protrusion fromdoor 565. To open door 565, an individual would grasp an underside 571of handle 570 and pull downward and outward. This implementation ismerely exemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

FIG. 6A is a side view of one embodiment of an outgoing mail flagconsistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown inFIG. 4. As shown in FIG. 6A, mail flag 615 is attached to the side ofhousing 605 and slides horizontally in slot 610. Mail flag 615 extendsoutward from housing 605 to indicate the presence of outgoing mail andstays in slot 610 to indicate the absence of outgoing mail. Mail flag615 may be extended and retracted manually or automatically. Thisimplementation is merely exemplary, and other implementations may alsobe used.

FIG. 6B is a side view of a second embodiment of an outgoing mail flagconsistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown inFIG. 4. As shown in FIG. 6B, mail flag 630 is attached to main door 625,which is attached to housing 620. In this implementation, mail flag 630is attached to main door 625 by a hinge 635. Mail flag 630 rotates onhinge 635 to indicate the presence or absence of outgoing mail. Mailflag 630 may be rotated manually or automatically. This implementationis merely exemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

FIG. 6C is a side view of a third embodiment of an outgoing mail flagconsistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown inFIG. 4. As shown in FIG. 6C, mail flag 645 is attached to rod 655. Rod655 rotates around axis 660, which is attached to housing 650. In thisimplementation, mail flag 645 is raised to extend beyond main door 640to indicate the presence of outgoing mail in the UDCBU. Mail flag 645may be rotated manually or automatically. This implementation is merelyexemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

FIG. 7A is a frontal perspective view illustrating a universal deliveryand collection box unit with an open main door consistent with anexemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4. In thisimplementation, as shown in FIG. 7A, opening main door 410 of UDCBU 400reveals an incoming mail door 730, an outgoing mail door 710, and anauxiliary compartment 760. This implementation is merely exemplary, andother implementations may also be used.

Incoming mail door 730 provides access to an incoming mail compartment780 (see FIG. 7B). In one implementation, door latches for incoming maildoor 730 will hold incoming mail door 730 closed but will allow easyopening and closing requiring no more than 5 pounds of force. Magneticlatches may also be used in this implementation. These implementationsare merely exemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

As shown in FIG. 7A, in one implementation, incoming mail door 730includes a handle 750 and a slot 740. Handle 750 allows an individual toopen incoming mail door 730. Slot 740 allows a mail carrier to placemail into incoming mail compartment 780. In one implementation, the slotwill measure a minimum of 1.75 inches high by 10 inches wide. In thisimplementation, the bottom edge of the slot will be at a height ofbetween 41-45 inches when measured from the road surface. In anotherimplementation, the slot will have a protective flap that operatesinward to ensure mail can be inserted in horizontal manner withoutrequiring any additional effort. The design of the mail slot will alsopreclude opportunities for mail pilfering. In another implementationincoming mail door 730 will include a locking mechanism, such as a PSIN0910 lock available from USPS-approved sources. These implementationsare merely exemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

Outgoing mail door 710 provides access to an outgoing mail compartment770 (see FIG. 7C). In one implementation, outgoing mail door 710includes a handle 720. Handle 720 allows an individual to open outgoingmail door 710. This implementation is merely exemplary, and otherimplementations may also be used.

As shown in FIG. 7A, UDCBU 400 may also include an auxiliary compartment760. Auxiliary compartment 760 may be used to hold items having aconfiguration such that it cannot be placed in incoming mail compartment780, such as newspapers, magazines, and other items as desired.Additional compartments may also be included behind main door 410, ifdesired.

FIG. 7B is a frontal perspective view illustrating a universal deliveryand collection box unit with an open main door and open incoming maildoor consistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, as shownin FIG. 7A. As shown in FIG. 7B, incoming mail door 730 is opened toreveal an incoming mail compartment 780. Incoming mail compartment 780holds mail delivered by USPS to an authorized consumer. In oneimplementation, only the USPS and an authorized consumer would be ableto open incoming mail door 730. In this implementation, incoming mailcompartment 780 will be a minimum of 12 inches wide by 8 inches high by15 inches deep. This implementation is merely exemplary, and otherimplementations may also be used.

FIG. 7C is a frontal perspective view illustrating a universal deliveryand collection box unit with an open main door and open outgoing mailcompartment consistent with an exemplary embodiment of the invention, asshown in FIG. 7A. As shown in FIG. 7C, outgoing mail door 710 is openedto reveal an outgoing mail compartment 770. Outgoing mail compartment770 holds mail from the authorized consumer to be picked up by USPS fordelivery. In one implementation, outgoing mail compartment 770 will becapable of accommodating more than a dozen standard letters and flats.In another implementation, the floor of outgoing mail compartment 770will be corrugated or ribbed to ensure that the mail remains dry anddoes not stick as a result of condensation. This implementation ismerely exemplary, and other implementations may also be used.

FIG. 8 is a frontal perspective view illustrating a universal deliveryand collection box unit with an open storage door consistent with anexemplary embodiment of the invention, as shown in FIG. 4. As shown inFIG. 8, storage door 460 is opened to reveal storage compartment 810. Inone implementation, storage compartment 810 comprises a shelf 830 and aclothing rod 820. This implementation is merely exemplary, and otherimplementations may also be used.

Shelf 830 is used to store and arrange deliverables in storagecompartment 810. In one implementation, shelf 830 may be retractableand/or vertically adjustable to allow for the separation of variousparcels. Clothing rod 820 is used to hang clothing. This would permitdry cleaners to deliver to UDCBU 400. In one implementation, clothingrod 820 may be adjustable. These implementations are merely exemplary,and other implementations may also be used.

In another implementation, storage compartment 810 may be capable ofholding perishables, refrigerated items and frozen goods. In thisimplementation, the perishables, refrigerated items and frozen goods,would be able to be held for a period of at least 12 hours. A time/datestamp may be used to indicate the amount of time an item has been instorage compartment 810.

In one implementation, storage compartment 810 may comprise insulation860 located in the walls of storage compartment 810 to maintain thetemperature in storage compartment 810. In another implementation,insulation packs that maintain temperatures for refrigerated or frozenitems may be used. In yet another implementation, storage compartment810 may comprise a temperature control device 850 such as an appropriateheating or cooling element to maintain a predetermined temperature inthe storage compartment 810. These implementations are merely exemplary,and other implementations may also be used.

The implementation described in FIGS. 4-8 is primarily designed for asingle-family dwelling. However, a UDCBU consistent with the inventioncould also be designed for multi-family residences or offices. Byincreasing the size and or number of the compartments, the UDCBU couldbe designed to accommodate multiple authorized consumers.

Other embodiments of the invention will be apparent to those skilled inthe art from consideration of the specification and practice of theinvention disclosed herein. It is intended that the specification andexamples be considered as exemplary only, with a true scope and spiritof the invention being indicated by the following claims.

1. A secure container for housing mail and other deliverablescomprising: a watertight housing; an incoming mail compartment disposedinside the housing; an outgoing mail compartment disposed inside thehousing; a storage compartment disposed inside the housing; a main doorattached to the housing, wherein the main door provides access to theincoming mail compartment and the outgoing mail compartment and does notprovide access to the storage compartment; a storage door attached tothe housing, wherein the storage door provides access to the storagecompartment and does not provide access to the incoming mail compartmentand outgoing mail compartment; a sensing device configured to determinedelivery information upon placement of a deliverable in the storagecompartment; an electronic memory adapted to store a log of the deliveryinformation; and a communication device configured to communicate thedelivery information from the electronic memory to a scanning device,wherein the scanning device includes: a receiver configured to retrievethe delivery information from the communication device; and atransmitter configured to transmit the delivery information to adesignated location.
 2. The container of claim 1, wherein the incomingmail compartment comprises: a door, the door including a slot forreceiving mail; and a locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanismallows an authorized consumer to access the incoming mail compartment.3. The container of claim 1, wherein the storage compartment includes abar for hanging clothing.
 4. The container of claim 1, wherein thestorage compartment is lined at least in part with insulation.
 5. Thecontainer of claim 4, wherein the storage compartment further comprises:a temperature control device configured to maintain a predeterminedtemperature in the storage compartment.
 6. The container of claim 1,wherein the main door comprises: a locking mechanism, wherein thelocking mechanism allows only the United States Postal Service and anauthorized consumer to open the main door.
 7. The container of claim 1,wherein the sensing device includes: a locking mechanism located in thestorage door, wherein the locking mechanism allows only the UnitedStates Postal Service, an authorized consumer, and an authorized sourceof deliveries to open the storage door.
 8. The container of claim 7,wherein the locking mechanism comprises: an electronic lock operated bya keypad located on the storage door.
 9. The container of claim 8,wherein the electronic lock is configured to be opened when an accesscode is entered on the keypad; and the delivery information includes theaccess code used to open the electronic lock and the time and date theaccess code is used.
 10. The container of claim 1, further comprising: adeliverables indicator located on the storage door to indicate thepresence of a deliverable in the storage compartment.
 11. The containerof claim 1, wherein the delivery information includes: the time at whicha deliverable is placed in the storage compartment; and the source ofthe deliverable in the storage compartment.
 12. The container of claim1, further comprising: an outgoing mail flag located on the exterior ofthe housing, the flag having a first orientation and a secondorientation, the first orientation indicating the presence of mail inthe outgoing mail compartment, and the second orientation indicating theabsence of mail in the outgoing mail compartment.
 13. The container ofclaim 1, further comprising a second communication device configured tocommunicate the delivery information to a second designated location.14. The container of claim 13, wherein the second communication deviceis a wireless transmitter.
 15. A secure container for housing mail andother deliverables comprising: a watertight housing; an incoming mailcompartment located inside the housing; an outgoing mail compartmentlocated inside the housing; an auxiliary mail compartment located insidethe housing, the auxiliary compartment configured to accept mail havinga configuration such that it cannot be delivered to the incoming mailcompartment; a storage compartment located inside the housing; a maindoor attached to the housing, wherein the main door provides access tothe incoming mail compartment, the outgoing mail compartment, and theauxiliary mail compartment; and wherein the main door comprises alocking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanism allows only the UnitedStates Postal Service and an authorized consumer to open the main door;a storage door attached to the housing, wherein the storage doorprovides access to the storage compartment; a sensing device configuredto identify delivery information including the time a deliverable isplaced in the storage compartment and the source of the deliverablewherein the sensing device includes a locking mechanism located in thestorage door that allows only the United States Postal Service, anauthorized consumer, and an authorized source of deliveries to open thestorage door; an electronic memory adapted to store a log of theidentified delivery information; a communication device configured tocommunicate the delivery information from the electronic memory to ascanning device, wherein the scanning device includes: a receiverconfigured to retrieve the delivery information from the communicationdevice; and a transmitter configured to transmit the deliveryinformation to a designated location.
 16. The secure container of claim15, further comprising a second communication device configured totransmit the delivery information to a predetermined recipient.
 17. Thesecure container of claim 15 further comprising: an outgoing mail flaglocated on the exterior of the housing, wherein the outgoing mail flagis movable between a first position and a second position, the firstposition indicating the presence of mail in the outgoing mailcompartment, and the second position indicating the absence of mail inthe outgoing mail compartment.
 18. The container of claim 15, whereinthe wherein the scanning device is an infrared scanning device.
 19. Asystem for receiving deliverables and communicating delivery informationto an intended recipient, comprising: a receptacle configured to receivedeliverables, the receptacle including a first compartment for receivingpostal deliverables and a second compartment for receiving deliverablesfrom authorized non-postal sources; means for sensing when non-postaldeliverables are received in the second compartment and for identifyingassociated delivery information; means for electronically storing thedelivery information and transmitting the delivery information to adesignated location; means for receiving transmitted deliveryinformation; means for storing transmitted delivery information; meansfor sorting the delivery information based on the identity of the sourceof the non-postal deliverables in the second compartment; and means forcalculating an access fee based on the number of times the source of thenon-postal deliverables placed a non-postal deliverable in the secondcompartment.
 20. A system for receiving deliverables and communicatingdelivery information to an intended recipient, comprising: a receptacleconfigured to receive deliverables, the receptacle including a firstcompartment for receiving postal deliverables and a second compartmentfor receiving deliverables from authorized non-postal sources; means forsensing when non-postal deliverables are received in the secondcompartment and for identifying associated delivery information; meansfor electronically storing the delivery information and transmitting thedelivery information to a designated location; and a communicationdevice configured to communicate the delivery information from the meansfor electronically storing the delivery information to a scanningdevice, wherein the scanning device includes a receiver configured toretrieve the delivery information from the communication device.
 21. Thesystem of claim 20, wherein the means for sensing includes a timingdevice configured to identify the time of delivery.
 22. The system ofclaim 21, wherein the sensing means includes an access control mechanismconfigured to accept a code identifying the source of the deliverable.23. The system of claim 21, wherein the means for sensing includes anidentification device configured to identify the source of thenon-postal deliverables in the second compartment.
 24. The system ofclaim 20, further comprising a database located remote from thereceptacle for receiving and storing the delivery information andwherein the scanning device further includes a transmitter configured totransmit the delivery information to the database.
 25. The system ofclaim 20, wherein the scanning device is a wireless electronic devicehaving a memory and a display.
 26. The system of claim 20, wherein thescanning device is an infrared scanning device.
 27. The system of claim20, further comprising means for indicating the presence of adeliverable in the second compartment.
 28. The system of claim 20,wherein the delivery information is transmitted periodically.
 29. Thesystem of claim 20, wherein the delivery information is transmitted inreal-time.
 30. A method for monitoring delivery of items to a pluralityof receptacles at different locations, the method comprising: providinga secure receptacle to a plurality of consumers, the secure receptacleincluding at least two secured storage compartments configured to acceptdelivered items, wherein at least one secured storage compartment isconfigured to receive postal deliverables and at least one storagecompartment is configured to receive deliverables from authorizednon-postal sources; authorizing at least one non-postal source ofdeliverable items to have access to the non-postal storage compartmentsof each receptacle; monitoring usage of the secured non-postal storagecompartment to identify when a delivered item has been received andidentifying the authorized source of the delivered item; and assessing afee against the authorized source.
 31. The method of claim 30, whereinthe fee is assessed for each delivered item.
 32. The method of claim 30,wherein the fee is periodically assessed for access to the securedcontainer over a predetermined time period.
 33. The method of claim 30,wherein a plurality of sources of deliverable items are authorized andeach such source is provided with a unique identification necessary toobtain access to the secured storage container.
 34. A secure containerfor housing mail and other deliverables comprising: a watertighthousing; an incoming mail compartment disposed inside the housing; anoutgoing mail compartment disposed inside the housing; a storagecompartment disposed inside the housing; a main door attached to thehousing, wherein the main door provides access to the incoming mailcompartment and the outgoing mail compartment; a storage door attachedto the housing, wherein the storage door provides access to the storagecompartment; a sensing device configured to determine deliveryinformation upon placement of a deliverable in the storage compartment;an electronic memory adapted to store a log of the delivery information;a communication device configured to communicate the deliveryinformation from the electronic memory to an infrared scanning device,wherein the scanning device includes: a receiver configured to retrievethe delivery information from the communication device; and atransmitter configured to transmit the delivery information to adesignated location.
 35. The container of claim 34, wherein the incomingmail compartment comprises: a door, the door including a slot forreceiving mail; and a locking mechanism, wherein the locking mechanismallows an authorized consumer to access the incoming mail compartment.36. The container of claim 34, wherein the storage compartment includesa bar for hanging clothing.
 37. The container of claim 34, wherein thestorage compartment is lined at least in part with insulation.
 38. Thecontainer of claim 37, wherein the storage compartment furthercomprises: a temperature control device configured to maintain apredetermined temperature in the storage compartment.
 39. The containerof claim 34, wherein the main door comprises: a locking mechanism,wherein the locking mechanism allows only the United States PostalService and an authorized consumer to open the main door.
 40. Thecontainer of claim 34, wherein the sensing device includes: a lockingmechanism located on the storage door, wherein the locking mechanismallows only the United States Postal Service, an authorized consumer,and an authorized source of deliveries to open the storage door.
 41. Thecontainer of claim 40, wherein the locking mechanism comprises: anelectronic lock operated by a keypad located on the storage door. 42.The container of claim 41, wherein the electronic lock is configured tobe opened when an access code is entered on the keypad; and the deliveryinformation includes the access code used to open the electronic lockand the time and date the access code is used.
 43. The container ofclaim 34, further comprising: a deliverables indicator located on thestorage door to indicate the presence of a deliverable in the storagecompartment.
 44. The container of claim 34, wherein the deliveryinformation includes: the time at which a deliverable is placed in thestorage compartment; and the source of the deliverable in the storagecompartment.
 45. The container of claim 34, further comprising: anoutgoing mail flag located on the exterior of the housing, the flaghaving a first orientation and a second orientation, the firstorientation indicating the presence of mail in the outgoing mailcompartment, and the second orientation indicating the absence of mailin the outgoing mail compartment.
 46. The container of claim 34, furthercomprising a second communication device configured to communicate thedelivery information to a second designated location.
 47. The containerof claim 46, wherein the second communication device is a wirelesstransmitter.